Hong Kong Housing Authority
In response to the growing demand for housing and the need for safer and more efficient construction practices, the Hong Kong government has placed a strong emphasis on Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) in its recent policy addresses. The Hong Kong Housing Authority (HKHA) has stated to adopt the Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) approach, including the incorporation of MiC in suitable public housing projects within the first five-year period. However, the installation process of MiC faces several challenges, including uncertainties in the position and orientation of modules, obstructed lines of sight and blind spots, as well as safety concerns related to the hoisting of bulky modules. In line with this vision and to meet the needs of HKHA, ASTRI has proposed a “Smart Optics Precision Positioning System”, an innovative solution designed to address the critical positioning challenge in MiC projects. This project aims to develop a comprehensive system that leverages innovative technologies, including optical-based non-Visible Light Communication (nVLC), optical transmitters, multi-scale position tracking, and digital twin modeling. The research methodology involves nVLC communication for active marker tracking, efficient and wide-focused beam distribution through optical transmitters, and a multi-scale position tracking approach. High speed coarse-scale pose estimation is achieved using nVLC-based active marker tracking, while fine-scale position correction is performed at regular intervals with Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) matrix. Finally, ultra-fine-scale precision alignment is achieved by leveraging advanced computer vision techniques for environmental understanding to identify installation gaps, ensuring highly accurate module alignment during the installation process. ASTRI's Smart Optics Precision Positioning System not only monitors module movements to minimize hoisting-related accidents but also serves as a technology enabler for other sensing or safety monitoring solutions on the lifting frame. The digital twin model provides a real-time virtual representation, enhancing situational awareness and decision-making. By addressing the critical positioning challenge in MiC, this project aligns with the government's vision of promoting safe, productive, and sustainable construction practices, ultimately contributing to the timely delivery of high-quality housing projects.
